Budd pockets crown

SHAWN Budd is the 2012 Australian Open Snooker champion after edging out Vinnie Calabrese 6-5 in the decider at Mounties last Friday.

Despite trailing 4-2 in the 11-frame final, Budd rallied to win three straight frames to claim the 16th annual Open named after Bob Hawke AC.

Both players had relatively smooth passages to the final losing only nine frames between them en route to the decider. Calabrese won the highest break category with a breathtaking 136 opening to his quarter final win.

Current Australian No.1 player Steve Mifsud was eliminated in the third round.